Desiree Koontz-Nachtrieb holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Dance, along with a Master of Fine Arts in Dance with a specialization in Choreography. With over twenty years of experience in dance education, she is commencing her fifth year teaching a variety of both lecture and lab-based courses at Bowie State University. In addition, she serves as a Senior Adjunct Professor in the Dance Department at Howard Community College, where she is beginning her ninth year.

Throughout her career, Koontz-Nachtrieb has been active as a performer, choreographer, and educator in the field of dance. She has professionally performed and choreographed works in both classical and contemporary ballet, as well as post-modern dance, across the United States and internationally.

Koontz-Nachtrieb is dedicated to guiding students who are preparing for careers as professional dancers, as well as those who are simply exploring movement and the history of the art form. She believes that dance serves as a potent medium for human expression, and through teaching and learning about dance, individuals can cultivate connections that extend beyond everyday life.